mineral
Milky quartz (white quartz)
Quartz, silicon dioxide (SiO₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically hardness 7, white to translucent, vitreous to waxy luster, and a hexagonal crystal structure; cleavage is absent, with uneven to conchoidal fracture. The specimen appears polished or naturally smoothed, though image blur limits certainty.
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Physical properties
Typically hardness 7, white to translucent, vitreous to waxy luster, and a hexagonal crystal structure; cleavage is absent, with uneven to conchoidal fracture. The specimen appears polished or naturally smoothed, though image blur limits certainty.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich fluids crystallize in veins, cavities, and igneous or metamorphic rocks. Quartz is geologically widespread and can form from Precambrian through modern geological time.
Uses & applications
Used for glass, ceramics, abrasives, engineered stone, and electronics; attractive pieces are used in lapidary work and inexpensive jewelry.
Geological facts
Its cloudy appearance commonly results from microscopic fluid inclusions or structural defects. Quartz is one of Earth’s most abundant and durable minerals.
Field identification & locations
Common in granite, pegmatite, hydrothermal veins, and alluvial gravels worldwide. Confirm with hardness testing: it should scratch ordinary glass but not be scratched by a steel blade; acid should not react.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary